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Operational Test Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tekla Research

Test & Evaluation Specialist

Solomons, MD · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Four or more years (within the last 8) of specialized experience in developmental or operational test and evaluation of tactical aircraft, weapons, software or systems. Position Description: The Test ...

ASD Solutions

Test Analyst

Edwards, CA · On-site

Drafts operational effectiveness test plans, reports, and various supporting documents and briefings. * Assists the test director in timely preparation of high-quality analysis across the varied test ...

Parsons Corporation

Advanced Test Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$134K - $241K/yr

Candidate is responsible for providing test oversight throughout all phases of developmental and operational test events including flight, ground test, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), and operational ...

Parsons

Advanced Test Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$134K - $241K/yr

Candidate is responsible for providing test oversight throughout all phases of developmental and operational test events including flight, ground test, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), and operational ...

ASD Solutions

Test Analyst

Edwards, CA

Drafts operational effectiveness test plans, reports, and various supporting documents and briefings. * Assists the test director in timely preparation of high-quality analysis across the varied test ...

BAE Systems

Eng Prin - Test

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Support MMIII operational test launch preflight mission planning, test launch meetings, post launch flight assessment, and analysis discussions. * Provide on-site engineering expertise, insight ...

Yulista

Test Engineer

Fort Bliss, TX · On-site

Supervise field operations, logistics, data collection, and data management activities supporting test events. * Serve as Test Team Lead or Site Lead for multi-location test events, as assigned.

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How much do operational test jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for operational test in the United States is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of operational testing, high-paying roles such as senior test engineers, test directors, or program managers in defense, aerospace, or technology sectors can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and security clearances. These positions often involve leadership, complex project management, and advanced technical expertise, sometimes supplemented by bonuses or profit sharing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operational Test Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operational Test Analyst, you need a solid understanding of test methodologies, systems analysis, and data evaluation, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with test management tools, data analysis software, and sometimes certifications like ISTQB are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you interpret results and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure accurate, reliable testing that improves product quality and operational effectiveness.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Operational Test roles typically do not pay $4,000 weekly without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial diving, certain sales positions, or entrepreneurial ventures, but these usually require specific skills, training, or licensing. Most roles offering such high weekly pay are either highly specialized or involve significant risk or responsibility.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in Operational Test roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Operational Test roles often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adapting test plans to evolving requirements, and managing tight deadlines. Successfully addressing these challenges involves strong communication skills, proactive risk management, and the ability to adapt quickly to changes in operational environments. Building collaborative relationships with engineering, program management, and end-user teams also helps ensure tests are meaningful and results are actionable.

What is the difference between Operational Test vs Quality Assurance Tester?

AspectOperational TestQuality Assurance Tester
CredentialsTypically requires technical knowledge, sometimes certifications in testing or systemsOften requires certifications in QA methodologies, testing tools, or software testing
Work EnvironmentConducted in operational or real-world settings, often on live systemsPerformed in controlled environments, focusing on software or product quality
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by defense, military, or government agencies to evaluate systemsCommon in software, manufacturing, and tech industries for product quality checks

Operational Test and Quality Assurance Tester roles both involve testing, but Operational Tests focus on evaluating systems in real-world conditions, often in government or defense sectors. QA Testers primarily focus on ensuring product quality in controlled environments across various industries.

What is an Operational Test?

An Operational Test is a formal evaluation process where a system, product, or process is tested under realistic operating conditions to determine its effectiveness, suitability, and reliability for intended use. This type of testing is often used in industries like defense, aviation, and technology to ensure that equipment or software performs as expected in real-world scenarios. Operational tests are usually conducted by independent teams and are a critical step before full-scale deployment or adoption. The results help organizations identify potential issues and make informed decisions about the readiness of a system.

Is operations a high paying job?

Operational Test jobs can offer competitive salaries, especially for roles requiring specialized skills, certifications, or security clearances. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and industry, with some positions paying above average for technical and managerial responsibilities.

What is operational test and evaluation?

Operational test and evaluation (OT&E) is a process used to assess whether a system, such as military equipment or technology, meets operational requirements and is suitable for real-world use. It involves testing the system in conditions that simulate actual operational environments to identify issues and ensure performance, often conducted by specialized testers or evaluators. OT&E helps inform decision-making before full deployment or procurement.
More about Operational Test jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Operational Test jobs? The most popular types of Operational Test jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Operational Test jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Operational Test jobs are:
Operational Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operational Test job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,045 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Operational Test Engineer / Test Analyst

Leidos

Indian Springs, NV

$116K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 479 rated business services

Job description

Leidos is seeking an experienced Operational Test Engineer/Test Analyst to support USAF operational test, test engineering, and test analysis activities for advanced weapon systems, mission systems, and emerging technologies. The successful candidate will provide technical expertise to government test organizations by assisting with test planning, execution, analysis, and reporting activities that inform acquisition and fielding decisions.

Key Responsibilities
  • Support the planning, execution, and assessment of operational and developmental test activities for USAF and Joint systems.
  • Assist in the development of test plans, test objectives, evaluation criteria, and data collection requirements.
  • Provide test engineering support to ensure test methodologies, measures of effectiveness (MOEs), and measures of performance (MOPs) adequately address program objectives.
  • Perform test analysis activities, including data reduction, statistical analysis, mission effectiveness assessments, and operational suitability evaluations.
  • Support test event execution and coordinate with government test personnel, operational units, and program offices.
  • Analyze system performance and operational data to identify trends, deficiencies, and areas for improvement.
  • Develop technical reports, briefings, and assessment products for government stakeholders and acquisition decision makers.
  • Support Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMPs), Integrated Test Teams (ITTs), Operational Test Readiness Reviews (OTRRs), and other test-related activities.
  • Assist in identifying test risks, limitations, and mitigation strategies.
  • Ensure test activities and products comply with applicable DoD and USAF policies, instructions, and guidance.
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, Mathematics, Operations Research, or related technical field.
  • 12+ years of experience supporting DoD test and evaluation, systems acquisition, operational test, or related mission areas.
  • Experience supporting USAF operational test organizations, test engineering activities, or test analysis efforts.
  • Knowledge of DoD and USAF acquisition and test processes.
  • Experience developing test documentation, technical analyses, and briefing materials.
  • Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain and maintain required program access.
Preferred
  • Master's degree in a relevant discipline.
  • Experience supporting AFOTEC, Air Combat Command, Air Force Materiel Command, or other USAF test organizations.
  • Experience with statistical analysis, modeling and simulation, data analytics, or mission-level assessments.
  • Graduate of Test Pilot School, Weapons School, or equivalent operational test program.
  • PMP certification and/or DAWIA/DAU Test & Evaluation certification.
Travel
  • Approximately 10% travel for test events, planning conferences, and customer engagements.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:June 10, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $116,350.00 - $210,325.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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